The Legendary Dan Gurney Passes Away at Age 86

It is with a heavy heart that we report the passing of Daniel Sexton Gurney. Known in the racing world as the legendary Dan Gurney, he had passed away at the age of 86 due to pneumonia-related complications.

Gurney's achievements spanned decades. From 1957 to 1980, he had participated in Formula 1, IndyCar, NASCAR, CanAm, and many more. Gurney founded the All American Racers team in 1964 alongside Carroll Shelby. Their team raced in multiple series throughout the 90s. In 1967, he won the 24 Hours of Le Mans driving a Ford GT40 with A.J. Foyt. It was here he had started the tradition of popping champagne after a victory.

Gurney was also an inventor, is credited with the creation of the Gurney flap, and the Alligator motorcycle. He patented a new type of internal combustion engine only a few years ago.

His impact on the racing world, its culture, and its development is undeniable. Gurney’s family wrote the following in a statement.

“With one last smile on his handsome face, Dan drove off into the unknown just before noon today, January 14, 2018. In deepest sorrow, with gratitude in our hearts for the love and joy you have given us during your time on this earth, we say ‘Godspeed.’”

Our condolences go out to the Gurney family at this time. I'll be pouring out some champagne in his honor tonight.